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Tour de los Dones - Empowering Community Tourism in Tierra Bomba
Project Objective
Strengthen community-based tourism led by the Unión de Tierra Bomba Cooperative through business mentorship, professional marketing support, and equipment provision, transforming the Tour de los Dones into a sustainable, dignified, and competitive tourism experience.
Why Tierra Bomba?
Just 10 minutes from Cartagena, this Afro-descendant island of 10,000 inhabitants-rich in ecological and historical value-faces a critical reality: over 85% of its population lives in poverty. In response, community leaders created the Tour de los Dones-an authentic experience of walking and cycling tours led by locals that connects visitors with the island's natural and cultural treasures.
What does the project need to take off?
With high tourism potential, the project seeks support for one year to fund:
Business mentorship and strategic guidance: USD 9,000
Training in customer service, marketing, and bilingual skills: USD 12,000
Advertising and promotional materials: USD 9,000
Expansion of bicycle fleet and improvement of logistical equipment: USD 19,000
Expected Impact
10 families will rise out of extreme poverty with stable, dignified income.
50 people will improve their quality of life through project-generated income.
400 local youth will be inspired to develop the island's tourism potential.
207 children will gain access to education through project-generated surplus.
The local enterprise will grow, reaching more tourists and community beneficiaries.
Cultural pride, resilience, and heritage will be strengthened across the island.
Guaranteed Sustainability
The model is designed to be self-sustaining. Tour-generated income will fund operations, while training in digital marketing, service quality, and bilingualism will enhance visibility and attract more visitors. Reinvestment of profits will support continuous growth and social impact.
Additionally, the project will be supported by BDS Group, a sustainability consulting firm that will provide monitoring, technical audits, and impact measurement of the Tour de los Dones, ensuring tangible results and continuous improvement. The Dones de Misericordia Foundation will continue offering long-term institutional support, reinforcing local governance and ensuring project continuity.
Community-Led and Owned
The community is the protagonist and owner of the initiative. It is led by the Unión de Tierra Bomba Cooperative, endorsed by the community council, and aligned with the National Navy, local authorities, and tourism sector stakeholders. Its next step: becoming a Rotary Community Corps (RCC).
Invest in tourism that transforms lives.
Support a local, sustainable, and high-impact initiative.
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